'Yours Truly' Music Review

Published in Wade Hampton High School's The Herald

Ariana Grande’s breakout album, "Yours Truly," came out August 30 th , 2013. The Pop/R&B CD quickly earned a spot at the top of iTunes Top Album charts. She was named one of only 15 solo artists to ever have their breakout album come out as number one on the Billboard 200. Ariana is known for her acting as “Cat” in both "Victorious" and, more recently, "Sam and Cat" on Nickelodeon, but what you may not know is that she has some serious vocal skills. On "Yours Truly," she shows off her wide vocal range, which is often compared to that of Mariah Carey.

Many of the songs on the album feature other recording artists such as Mac Miller in “The Way,” which went platinum within two weeks of its release, Big Sean in “Right There,” MIKA in “Popular Song,” and Nathan Sikes from The Wanted in “Almost is Never Enough.”

The songs in the collection build off each other and sound similar, but that aspect gives it a nice flow. They all have a 90’s feel to them and are extremely catchy. One song in particular, titled “Daydreamin’,” really brings out the throwback- type sound. The ending of this song is a segment of vintage radio recordings which give the song individuality. Another song that stands out is “Honeymoon Avenue.” Its rhythm is catchy, and Ariana’s vocals are flawless. In all, the album is one of the best albums released this year, and there is no doubt that Ariana Grande is making her mark on today’s music by adding a new twist on the already popular pop genre and providing the music industry with an powerful but natural voice.